About The Hebridean Explorer
Meet Your Guide: John Alasdair Macdonald
John Alasdair Macdonald is a native Highlander and historian who founded The Hebridean Explorer over seventeen years ago to offer private tours that go beyond sightseeing. His goal is to connect visitors with the spirit of the Scottish Highlands and Islands — its history, land and people — through personalised experiences.
Highland Knowledge
John was raised on a small croft in the village of Coll, Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides. As a child his first language was Scottish Gaelic and he didn’t learn English until he started school. However, his schooling was dominated by the English language which soon became his main language. It is due to his mother that he has kept some Gaelic – she refuses to talk to him in English. Through his roots and heritage, John is able to share a wealth of knowledge and insights into the landscapes, history, and culture of the Highlands during his tours.
Highland History
John has a BA degree in Scottish History along with a Masters in British Studies from the University of the Highlands and Islands and is now in the final months of his PhD studies. His research focuses on the Gaelic clans of the Highlands and the Hebrides, exploring their social and economic circumstances in the decades following Culloden. This scholarly background enriches every tour with depth and authenticity... read more about John's PhD Research.
